Stage Door Theater’s first Comedy Night with J.J. Hill

Get ready for the Stage Door Theater’s first comedy night on Friday, March 8 at 8:00 p.m. Local comedian J.J. Hill is back in La Grande after a year-long tour of Alaska and New York City. New stories and new songs make this a whole show for La Grande audiences.

Hill, a native of Oregon, is a graduate of Eastern Oregon University’s Theatre Arts program. Hill appeared in a number of productions including Little Women, Boy’s Life and Assassins. He has been recognized for both his performing and vocal talent.

While studying theatre, Hill told jokes to friends over coffee and participated in improvisation shows. He began to hone his skills as a comedian by performing a number of times for EOU for student fundraisers. Hill’s practice routine is as simple as setting up a microphone in front of the mirror and going through his set. Despite the practice, “I get super nervous before a show,” says Hill, “but it’s nothing that a beverage won’t cure.”

Over the past five years J.J. has performed in a variety of venues around the Pacific Northwest and in New York City. “Doing shows in New York is amazing,” Hill said. “But, when you’re from Oregon it’s like doing a show on Mars. You never know what you’re going to get.”

Meanwhile, here in La Grande, Hill attracts a following of fans that enjoy his down-to-earth comedy and relatable stories. “I am excited to do a show in La Grande again. Some of my funniest times have happened right here in La Grande and I can’t wait to give [my fans] something new.”

J.J. Hill’s performance will begin at 8:00 p.m. at the Stage Door Theater, located at 1010 Adams Ave. The entrance to the theater is in the alley behind City Hall and Nature’s Pantry. Cover is $5 at the door and seating is first-come-first serve. Proceeds from this show go toward the Liberty Theatre restoration project. For more information call the Liberty Theatre Foundation at (541)626-3051.

This performance will contain mature adult themes and is not suitable for young children.